Buddo SS sets sights on semi-final redemption at ANOCA Schools Games

Uganda’s football representatives, Buddo SS, are gearing up for a high-stakes semi-final clash against hosts Algeria today at the iconic Stade 19 Mai 1956 in Annaba, a 56,000-seat venue that promises an electric atmosphere.

The matchup follows Buddo’s narrow 0–1 defeat to West African giants Ivory Coast in a tense, do-or-die encounter on Thursday in Constantine. Needing just a draw to top Group A and avoid facing Algeria, Buddo faltered in the 73rd minute, conceding a late penalty after defender Yunus Vvubya was penalized for pulling down an Ivorian attacker in the box—eerily similar to the penalty they gave away in their previous game.

Despite a sluggish first half, Buddo rallied in the second, injecting pace and creativity through winger Babi Abdul Shakur, whose efforts carved out several chances that went unconverted. Drama struck again in the 85th minute when their potential equalizer was flagged offside by the assistant referee.

Team captain Dickson Baraza blamed the loss on defensive lapses, noting that their backline struggled under pressure. A visibly disappointed head coach Richard Malinga declined media interviews, but his assistants assured fans that the team is determined to bounce back in the semis.

Meanwhile, Uganda’s athletics squad returns for Day Two of competition, with medal hope Loput Kizito competing in the 1500m final in Annaba. Kizito—Uganda’s sole medalist at the ISF Games in Serbia—will draw on his international experience as he eyes another podium finish.

Also representing Uganda on the track are Abraham Muhwezi and Rashid Atuyambe, who will compete in the 100m and 400m heats and finals, respectively.

Selected Results
Beach Volleyball Men Quarter Finals
Comoros 2-0 Uganda

Tennis Girls 
Kwapi Martha (UGA) 6-4 Koyongo Esther (DRC)
Thea Miranda (UGA) 2-6 Collins Eduafo ( GHA)

Football
Ivory coast 1-0 Uganda

Fixtures Today
Football Semi Finals 
Uganda vs Algeria 9pm, Annaba

Athletics
100m finals men
400m finals men
1500m finals men, Kizito Loput